3 Browns that are a must watch in their home opener

Player to watch No. 2: Martin Emerson

When the Browns used their first draft selection to take a cornerback this offseason, many fans were left puzzled. But now, almost five months removed from the NFL draft, it appears obvious why the team felt that they could not pass up the opportunity to select Martin Emerson.

In Emerson, the Browns got themselves a perfect compliment to Denzel Ward. Emerson is a tall, rangy cornerback who plays the game with a physical edge. The physicality the which Emerson plays the game with lends itself to doing the dirty work and being an asset in run support.

The Jets will be bringing a young explosive wide receiver group to the shores of Lake Erie on Sunday. With Corey Davis, Elijah Moore, Garrett Wilson, Braxton Berrios, and Denzel Mims all in line to see action, Emerson will see a variety of different body types and receiver styles.

But, even with his coverage duties, it may be in the running game where Emerson could help his team the most in Week 2. The Jets will be looking to come downhill at this Cleveland defense with the duo of Michael Carter and Breece Hall. Emerson will need to be among those ready to meet the charge in keeping the Jets’ running game from taking off.

Now with one game under his belt, Emerson will now face his first true grizzled veteran in Joe Flacco. The quarterback, who is in his 15th season as a pro, will undoubtedly look to test Emerson if given the opportunity. If Emerson’s week one performance is any indication, the rookie will be ready for the challenge.